The American Marquis by Nick Carter — page 144: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

Hag ee THE AMERICAN MARQUIS. ‘Poor Robert! Can you guess why I sent him away?” Klise looked admiringly at him, and did not answer. ‘*Qh, no,” said he, noting the admiration, “not that lg am going to rouse the demon of jealousy in his breast, but - not on my own account.” ) Elise flushed. She felt foolish at having made such a mistake as to sup- — pose he was in love with her. . _ She was not angry, however. «< Klise, I am zoing to take you into my confidence.” She looked pleased. a “A man I hate is coming Here to-day, to give me some. : money. I want you to help me to my revenge. Will © ou?” | “« Bras-de-Fer,” said Elise, ‘‘ since the day you conquered | me, you have been my master, [ think.” She held her head — down and went on: “I think you never will love me, but © I love you. I will do whatever you ask.” : He looked at her kindly for a moment and took her hand — in his. 4 “My pretty little Elise, I am very sorry. I never can © love you. I already love a woman ‘who has my whole heart. Iam very sorry. It is better to be frank with you.’ 4 The tiger-cat was no longer visible in Elise. She trem- — bled when he took her hand, and her voice was husky when she spoke. _ Jt was folly in me to think of it even for a moment. But never mind. I will do—will be happy to do anything you ask. I will do whatever you ask. I will not make you think of this again. J know what you are. You will never | change. At least, you respect me?” 4g ve Respect you and admire you, Elise.” ‘Well, ami, what can I do for you: 0h «1 will give you full instructions.” * * * *K mes tae ae * A few hours later, a soft voice bade Alphonse enter. “<T am looking for Monsieur Hastings,” said ‘one ae a gazing in wonderment at the beautiful creature lying on the lounge. | “« Are you?” 4 Half impudently, half pettishly. ‘* Does he live here?” comicbooks:com